Rafael Navarro aims to repeat his goal-scoring heroics when "Colorado Rapids" host "Austin FC" in their upcoming MLS clash. The Brazilian forward, who netted the winner in their last meeting, looks to spark a Rapids attack that has struggled recently.
"We need to find our scoring touch again," the Rapids coaching staff might suggest, with the team having scored just 4 goals in their previous six matches.
"Colorado Rapids" enter this fixture following a 2-1 defeat to "Portland Timbers," where Djordje Mihailović provided their only goal in the 33rd minute. Despite creating 11 attempts, Rapids managed just 29% possession in that loss.
Meanwhile, "Austin FC" are looking to bounce back after falling to "San Diego FC" in their last outing. Coach Josh Wolff's men controlled 39% of possession but managed only 2 shots on target in that defeat.
Interestingly, the head-to-head record heavily favors the home side, with "Colorado Rapids" winning 3 of their last 6 meetings compared to just 1 victory for Austin.
Their most recent encounter on March 9th ended 1-0 to Rapids, with Navarro scoring the decisive goal in the 18th minute. Worth noting that "Austin FC" dominated possession (59%) and created more chances (19 attempts) in that game but couldn't find the net.
"Colorado Rapids" are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation with Nicholas Defreitas between the posts and Mihailovic pulling the strings in midfield. For the visitors, Brad Stuver will likely start in goal with Brandon Vazquez leading the attack.
Can "Austin FC" finally break down the Rapids defense that shut them out last time? Or will Navarro and company continue their dominance in this fixture?
